Modulators for Terahertz Radiation

Professor Daniel Mittleman Interim Director, Richard E. Smalley Institute for Nanoscale Science and Technology, Rice University Abstract: Terahertz radiation promises many important emerging applications, from imaging to wireless communication. However, many critical components and capabilities remain out of reach. We describe recent advances in the development of one important example – the ability to externally modulate a freely propagating terahertz wave. Modern concepts in optics including metamaterials and plasmonics enable new strategies for modulation, and new materials such as graphene can offer enhanced functionality. We will discuss the state of the art in electrically driven modulators for terahertz radiation, and show how a high-speed multi-pixel spatial light modulator, together with new signal processing techniques, can enable real-time THz imaging.